Newark, NJ
Population 307,188 · New Jersey
About Newark, NJ
Newark is a major city located in New Jersey with a population of 307,188 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $48,416 per year, which is 36% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.8 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Newark features a median home value of $337,800, which is 38% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Newark in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,330, 14% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 121,604 total housing units, 24% are owner-occupied (27,434 units) and 76% are renter-occupied (86,314 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Newark shows an unemployment rate of 10.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 24.7%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Newark have an average one-way commute time of 33.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
17.4% of Newark residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 1.8% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 10.4% Black or African American, and 24.4% Asian residents, with 34.9% of the population being foreign-born.
How Newark Ranks in New Jersey
Cost of Living in Newark, NJ
Compared to national averages, Newark has a median household income of $48,416 (36% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $337,800, which is 38% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,330 is 14% above the US average of $1,163. Within New Jersey, Newark's income is 58% below the state average of $115,667, and home values are 28% below the state median of $469,644.
Why Live in Newark, NJ?
Potential considerations include median household income ($48,416) that falls below the national average. However, as a major city, Newark provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Newark has a population of 307,188 with a median age of 34.8 years. Compare Newark with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New Jersey.
Similar Cities Near Newark
Cities in New Jersey with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jersey City | 289,691 | $94,813 | $534,500 | Compare |
| Paterson | 157,660 | $53,766 | $335,400 | Compare |
| Elizabeth | 135,887 | $63,874 | $393,500 | Compare |
| Toms River | 93,915 | $95,759 | $377,800 | Compare |
| Trenton | 89,966 | $47,102 | $122,500 | Compare |
| Clifton | 89,247 | $99,003 | $444,300 | Compare |
| Camden | 71,471 | $40,450 | $100,400 | Compare |
| Bayonne | 70,468 | $81,285 | $446,100 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in New Jersey
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Newark With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Newark
What is the population of Newark, NJ?
The population of Newark, NJ is 307,188 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a major city in New Jersey.
What is the median household income in Newark?
The median household income in Newark, NJ is $48,416 per year, which is 36% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Newark?
The median home value in Newark, NJ is $337,800, which is 38% above the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Newark?
The median monthly rent in Newark, NJ is $1,330, which is 14% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Newark?
The unemployment rate in Newark, NJ is 10.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Newark, NJ a good place to live?
Newark offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 307,188 and a median age of 34.8, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Newark, NJ?
17.4% of residents in Newark aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Newark?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Newark, NJ: median home value is $337,800 (38% above national), median rent is $1,330/month, and median household income is $48,416. The home-value-to-income ratio is 7.0x, which suggests housing may be stretched relative to local earnings.
What is the poverty rate in Newark?
The poverty rate in Newark, NJ is 24.7%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Newark, NJ?
Newark's population is 1.8% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 10.4% Black or African American, 24.4% Asian, and 45.5% two or more races. 34.9% of residents are foreign-born.